Toyota "travel companion" robot to go on sale next year
Toyota is getting ready to sell its first robot through dealerships next year.The Kirobo is described as a "travel companion" that helps its owner become a better driver.Kirobo -- a mash-up of the Japanese word for "hope" and "robot" -- connects to devices via Bluetooth via an app, and can adjust its speech and behavior by reading the emotions of its owner.
Toyota unveils robot baby to tug at maternal instinct in aging Japan
A staff holds Toyota Motor Corp's Kirobo Mini robot in her hands as she poses with the robot after a news conference in Tokyo, Japan, September 27, 2016.Picture taken on September 27, 2016.REUTERS/Kim Kyung-HoonA staff member listens to Toyota Motor Corp's Kirobo Mini robot's voice as she poses with the robot after a news conference in Tokyo, Japan, September 27, 2016.
Toyota plays on emotions with tiny 'useless' robot
Toyota plays on emotions with tiny 'useless' robotEmail Newsletters Sign up for one of our email newsletters.TOKYO — The new robot from Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corp. can't do much but chatter in a high-pitched voice.The 39,800-yen ($390), 4-inch-tall, doll-like Kirobo Mini — whose name comes from "kibo," or "hope," and "robot" — supposedly has the smarts of a 5-year-old.
Toyota wants this baby robot to be your friend
Lonely at the wheel?Toyota wants to sell you a talking robot to keep you company.Small enough to fit in the cup holder of your Corolla, the robot is described by Toyota (TM) as "a miniature communication partner developed to provide companionship."